The Endangered Species Act Is Working: State-by-State Fact Sheets

The Endangered Species Act (ESA) has been one of the most effective tools used to protect America’s perilously declining wildlife and has helped prevent the extinction of 99 percent of the species under its protection. The 1973 law provides a framework for using science to guide management and reduce the threats of development to threatened species. It has helped Americans be good stewards of our natural heritage for future generations. Members of Congress who attack the ESA are out of step with core American values.

The following fact sheets provide data showing that the federal government has typically responded quickly to requests made under the ESA to ensure development projects do not adversely affect threatened or endangered species. These consultations—which critics claim burden development—are generally completed within weeks.